What is this medicine?

ETHINYL ESTRADIOL; NORETHINDRONE ACETATE (ETH in il es tra DYE ole; nor eth IN drone AS e tate) is an oral contraceptive. The products combine two types of female hormones, an estrogen and a progestin. They are used to prevent ovulation and pregnancy.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

How should I use this medicine?

Take one tablet by mouth daily. Take this medicine at the same time each day and in the order directed on the package. The package contains some chewable and some tablets that should be swallowed whole. The first 24 tablets in the package should be chewed completely then swallowed. After swallowing the chewed tablet, drink a full glass of water. The last 4 tablets in the package should be swallowed whole. Do not chew or crush these tablets. To reduce nausea, this medicine may be taken with food. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

A patient package insert for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Contact your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medicine has been used in female children who have started having menstrual periods.

Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, refer to the patient information sheet you received with your medicine for direction. If you miss more than one pill, this medicine may not be as effective and you may need to use another form of birth control.